How it works

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that may be used for the treatment of allergies, motion sickness, to help induce sleep, and to relieve symptoms of Parkinson's Disease.

Diphenhydramine treats allergic-type reactions by blocking histamine-1 (H1) receptors. This prevents histamine from having an effect on the airways, blood vessels, and on the gastrointestinal tract, reversing symptoms such as bronchoconstriction (narrowing of the airways), rash and itch, and stomach cramps. Diphenhydramine also blocks acetylcholine receptors, sodium channels, and inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, among other effects. These latter effects are responsible for its sedative effects and side effects such as dry mouth.

Diphenhydramine belongs to the class of medicines known as first generation antihistamines. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine of the ethanolamine class.

Upsides

Used to treat the symptoms of allergic-type reactions such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

May be used for the treatment of allergies, insect bites, hay fever, allergic conjunctivitis, urticaria (hives), and in addition to epinephrine for anaphylactic reactions.

May be used to relieve the symptoms of nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.

Can be used to help people relax or fall asleep.

May also be used for elderly people with Parkinson's disease who are unable to tolerate more potent agents.

Generic diphenhydramine is available.

Downsides

If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include:

Drowsiness and sedation which may impair judgment and affect a person's ability to drive or operate machinery. Alcohol should be avoided because it can make this side effect worse.

Dizziness, low blood pressure, a headache, rapid heart beat, disturbed coordination, abdominal discomfort and a thickening of mucus in the airways may also occur.

May cause a dry mouth, which may increase the risk of dental caries and worsen the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) if diphenhydramine is used on a regular basis.

Not suitable for use in women who are breastfeeding or young children. Elderly people may be more susceptible to the side effects of sedation, dizziness, and low blood pressure (all of which may increase their risk of falls).

Overdosage of diphenhydramine has been associated with hallucinations, convulsions, and death.

May interact with a number of other drugs including benzodiazepines, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and alcohol.

May not be suitable for some people including those with respiratory diseases such as asthma, narrow-angle glaucoma, peptic ulcer disease, intestinal obstruction, high blood pressure or heart disease, high thyroid levels, an enlarged prostate, or a narrowing of the neck of the bladder.

Notes: In general, seniors or children, people with certain medical conditions (such as liver or kidney problems, heart disease, diabetes, seizures) or people who take other medications are more at risk of developing a wider range of side effects. For a complete list of all side effects, click here.

Bottom Line

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can be used to treat allergic reactions, relieve motion sickness, as a sleep aid, and to relieve some symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Sedation is a common side effect.

Tips

Diphenhydramine may be taken with or without food.

Take exactly as directed. Do not take more than is recommended.

Do not drive or operate machinery if diphenhydramine makes you drowsy or affects your judgment. Avoid alcohol.

When using for motion sickness, take diphenhydramine 30 minutes before any exposure to motion. Take subsequent doses before meals or at bedtime for the duration of the exposure.

Diphenhydramine should not be used as a nighttime sleep aid in children aged less than twelve.

Ensure you maintain good oral hygiene if you are taking diphenhydramine long-term.

Stand up slowly when going from a sitting or lying down position. Diphenhydramine may cause a drop in blood pressure which may cause symptoms such as dizziness and increase your risk of falls. Remove any fall hazards in your home (such as rugs) and talk to your doctor if you are experiencing severe dizziness every time you stand up.

Professional resources

Related treatment guides

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use diphenhydramine only for the indication prescribed.

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